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Every Time You Say These 10 Words to Yourself You Are Killing Your Productivity

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Delegation

“It will be quicker if I just do it myself.”  

Have you ever said this to yourself? These 10 seemingly innocuous words have come back to haunt many engineering managers (and their firms). Most professionals today approach work in a very reactive manner. A task or request comes across their desk and they jump on it, in an effort to get it done as quickly as possible. This mentality is referred to as the Hyperactive Hive Mind (HHM), a term coined by author Cal Newport in his latest book, “A World Without Email,” which I recently finished reading.

There are many problems with this mentality, but two critical ones are:

  1. It forces us to jump around from task to task, fragmenting our work, and preventing us from spending long periods of time on one thing, which creates a cognitive drain on our brains, and
  2. It puts us in a constant short-term mindset, where we focus on getting something done NOW and not thinking of the long-term consequences or missed opportunities.

I want to discuss #2 in detail in this post. Many engineering professionals perform tasks repeatedly, like completing a timesheet, preparing a technical report, sending project status updates, preparing invoices, and conducting staff meetings, just to name a few. Many of these tasks can (AND SHOULD) be delegated to someone else on their teams. However, because we operate in the Hyperactive Hive Mind mentality, we prioritize everything as “DO THIS IMMEDIATELY.” Therefore, we miss awesome opportunities in the delegation of tasks and free up more time for us to work on higher-impact initiatives, which is ultimately how divisions, departments, and companies grow.

Let’s look at an example:

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The Correlation Between Workers’ Safety and Productivity

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This is a guest post by Eric Whitley

Safety and ProductivityImage by aleksandarlittlewolf  on Freepik

Ever paused mid-project to admire a brilliantly executed piece of engineering?

While we often laud innovation and design, there’s a silent driver behind such successes: safety. We’re talking about cultivating an environment where safety is seamlessly woven into our operations — beyond the routine safety drills and hard hats.

As workers step into leadership shoes, steering the projects that will shape our world, it’s imperative to remember that safety isn’t just a protocol. It’s the foundation for excellence.

The Tangible Benefits of a Safe Workplace

Safety in the workplace translates directly into measurable business benefits. Accidents and mishaps don’t only harm individuals — they have a ripple effect across the entire operation. Fewer accidents naturally lead to less downtime. When a project runs without unexpected halts, it maintains momentum and ensures that resources are utilized optimally.

Safety and Productivity

But a safe workplace isn’t just about preventing accidents — it’s about instilling trust. This also significantly reduces turnover rates: professionals thrive in environments where they feel valued and protected. Being recognized as a company that goes above and beyond to ensure safety can provide a competitive edge, more business opportunities, and a robust brand image.

Delving into the Data: Real-World Statistics and Studies

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Public Speaking for Engineering Success

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This is a guest post by Tiffani Teachey

public speaking

Image by wavebreakmedia_micro on Freepik

“Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning.” ~ Maya Angelou

I’m excited to share insights on communication and public speaking tailored specifically for engineers. As a Senior Mechanical Engineer and a Distinguished Toastmaster with experience as an International TEDx speaker with the University of South Africa, I understand the importance of bridging the gap between technical expertise and the art of conveying ideas effectively. Let’s delve into three key points that can help engineers like us master the art of communication.

Embrace Your Engineering Expertise

One of the unique advantages we engineers have is our deep technical knowledge. However, this expertise can sometimes be our Achilles’ heel when trying to communicate with non-technical audiences. Embrace your engineering background and use it to your advantage. Simplify complex concepts by breaking them down into digestible chunks. Connect your technical insights to real-world applications to make your message more relatable. Whether it’s discussing the intricacies of a machine’s design or explaining the benefits of a sustainable engineering solution, leverage your expertise to engage and educate effectively.

Learn from Toastmasters

As a Distinguished Toastmaster, I’ve undergone training in the art of public speaking and leadership. Keep the Toastmasters spirit alive in your professional life. Refine your speaking skills, practice impromptu speaking, and enhance your ability to organize and deliver engaging speeches. Furthermore, consider taking leadership roles within your Toastmasters club to strengthen your facilitation and team-building skills, which are invaluable in both engineering and public speaking contexts.

Draw Inspiration from TEDx Talks

My experience as an International TEDx speaker has been a remarkable achievement. TEDx talks are known for their ability to captivate audiences worldwide. Study TEDx talks in your area of interest to understand what makes them stand out. Observe how presenters use storytelling, relatable anecdotes, and visual aids to convey complex ideas. Incorporate these techniques into your own presentations to make your engineering topics more compelling and accessible to a broader audience.

In conclusion, as engineers, we have the power to revolutionize the world with our innovative ideas and solutions. However, to truly make a difference, we must also be effective communicators. Embrace your engineering expertise, take on your presentation journey with Toastmasters, and draw inspiration from the world of TEDx talks. By combining your technical knowledge with strong communication skills, you can inspire, educate, and drive positive change.

Now, it’s your turn! Take the first step in elevating your communication skills. Join a Toastmasters club, explore more TEDx talks, and start sharing your engineering insights with the world. Together, we can shape a future where engineers not only build extraordinary things but also inspire and engage the world with their ideas. Please let us know in the comments below any other ways to elevate your communication and presentation skills. We would love to hear from you!

About the Author

Personal Branding

Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani is the owner of Thrive Edge Publishing and owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering as well as a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is currently a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

As an engineer with more than 19 years of experience, Tiffani has a passion for inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift – 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book at www.stemistheway.com.

We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you might share about advancing your public speaking skills. 

Please leave your comments, feedback or questions in the section below.

  • If you enjoyed this post, please consider downloading our free list of 33 Productivity Routines of Top Engineering Executives. Click the button below to download.

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To your success,

Anthony Fasano, PE, LEED AP
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

Understanding and Managing Professional Liability Claims in Engineering Projects

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Professional Liability ClaimsImage by pch.vector on Freepik

Professional liability claims are a significant aspect of the engineering industry, demanding the attention of project managers and design professionals. By understanding the causes and consequences of these claims, professionals can take proactive measures to prevent them and protect their projects and reputations. Because this topic is so important, I interviewed John Lowe, P.E., the author of “A Guide to Managing Engineering and Architectural Design Services Contracts: What Every Project Manager Needs to Know,” and the following are the answers he provided to our questions.

Question:

John, could you briefly describe yourself and your daily responsibilities for our listeners?

Answer:

I grew up in Florida, spending most of my life there, and I earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Florida in 1961. After three years as an army pilot, I joined a Florida engineering firm where I managed projects in both the private and public sectors. As my career progressed, I went on to manage departments and eventually an entire office. I moved to California for 10 years before settling in Portland, OR, where I currently reside.

With 46 years as a consultant, I’m now semi-retired and have embarked on a second career by establishing Low Consulting LLC. My new focus primarily revolves around aiding design professionals in navigating business risks within their practice, a topic I cover in my self-published book that delves into effective management of engineering and architectural design service projects, encompassing knowledge essential for project managers. Over time, I’ve been invited as a guest speaker at local universities, professional society gatherings, and various events. Married with three adult children and two stepchildren, I usually begin my day with a devotional, followed by teaching pursuits and writing work on my book. Additionally, I actively engage in nonprofit activities geared toward supporting active-duty military personnel and veterans.

Question:

Why should we invest time in discussing professional liability claims, considering their infrequent occurrence, particularly when project managers need to consider all project aspects?

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Applications of Artificial Intelligence in the Built World

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This is a guest blog by Nick Heim, P.E.

built world

Image by Freepik

Civil engineers are designers and builders of many things in the built world, including buildings, roads, bridges, dams, ports, and many others.

No matter the asset, whether new or existing, there is a lot of work to be done — and with what seems like never enough resources.

Fortunately, applications of artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming more common and can help engineers more efficiently complete their tasks — while allowing them to focus on what is most interesting and important.

Today, I would like to summarize some of our top episodes from the AECTECH podcast, all of which relate to use of artificial intelligence in the built world.

If you find these brief summaries interesting, check out the full-length episodes!

1. AECT 009: Using AI and Digital Twins for Industry Asset Management

In this episode, I talk to Dr. Ali Khaloo, Ph.D., the CEO and co-founder of Aren, about what digital twins are and how you can bring digital twins and artificial intelligence to infrastructure asset management.

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Using Artificial Intelligence and Digital Twins for Industry Asset Management:

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How to Build a Strong Engineering Network: Top 3 Strategies for Successful Networking and Client Relations

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This is a guest post by Tiffani Teachey

client relations

Image by katemangostar on Freepik

“Networking allows you to learn from others’ experiences and gain valuable insights.” ~ Oprah Winfrey

Networking and client relations are essential skills for any engineer looking to succeed in the modern workplace. Not only will these skills enable engineers to develop their professional connections and relationships, but they will also help them to better understand the needs of their clients and how to best meet them. In this blog, we’ll look at three key points to keep in mind to improve your networking and client relations.

client relations

Get to Know Your Clients

It’s important to take the time to get to know your clients on a personal level. Ask questions to understand their needs, challenges, and goals. This will help you to identify areas of opportunity and suggest solutions that better meet their needs. Additionally, getting to know your clients on a personal level will help to build trust and ensure that your working relationship is mutually beneficial.

Be Professional

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Networking Inside Your Organization to Grow Your Career

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This is a guest post by Jeff Perry, MBA

Networking

Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik
Image by Freepik

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with others.” ~ African proverb

Do you even think about networking in your current organization?

One of the most common themes that has come up during my personal conversations with engineers and leaders is that many people are recognizing that they need to learn to network more effectively inside their organizations. Whether they are seeking to learn new skills, get a promotion or a team transfer, or experience mentorship, networking is the key to unlocking this.

Why We Network

Networking is an opportunity accelerant. The people in our lives that we are connected to and have relationships with can have huge impacts on our success and growth.

Networking

Here are just a few ways that networking with others in your organization can have an impact:

  • Learning about new opportunities in teams you might be interested in
  • Opportunities to participate in new projects and company initiatives
  • Getting bigger picture perspectives on what is going on in the organization
  • Mentorship to help you through various work challenges
  • Knowing more people who can help you break down project roadblocks or team siloes
  • Accelerating your path to promotion or a raise — more people who like and approve of you
  • Feeling connected to more people at work is always good!

The list above is in no way all-encompassing or exhaustive, but you can see just how life-changing this can be when you do this well!

Using Your Existing Network

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Reality Capture: The Future of AEC Technology

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This is a guest blog by Nick Heim, P.E.

reality capture

Image by Freepik

Civil engineers are designers and builders of many things in the built environment, including roads, bridges, dams, ports, and many others.

No matter the asset, our plans need to be brought to life — which includes capture of data and reporting.

The way that data in the built environment can be collected is rapidly changing.

Today, I would like to summarize some of our top episodes from the AECTECH podcast, all of which relate to the use of reality capture, the principles of which can be applied to civil engineering projects.

If you find these brief summaries interesting, check out the full-length episodes!

1. AECTECH 004: How AEC Professionals Can Start a Reality Capture Program in Their Company

In this episode, I talked to Scott Harrigan, the president of Harkin Aerial, about how AEC professionals can start and grow a reality capture program in their company.

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

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Situational Awareness: The Key to Engineering Leadership Success

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Situational Awareness

Image by katemangostar on Freepik

Jameson Taillon, a pitcher for the New York Yankees, recently posted his first win in two years. For someone whose career has been rattled by adversity, including multiple arm surgeries and a bout with cancer, it was a special moment. (UPDATE: Please note Taillon was on the New York Yankees when this article was originally published, and is now on the Chicago Cubs).

However, in listening to his post-game interview, it was something other than his story that caught my attention. He had a very rough start to the 2021 season, his first as a Yankee. He’d been hit pretty hard in his previous outings. So, in talking about his first win, what impressed me was hearing him speak intently about the importance of situational awareness.

Prior to his first win, he had gone back and reviewed the game tapes from the previous outings this year, and his study as well as the statistics gave him an important piece of information. He was terrible when facing batters with two strikes. In fact, he had given up more hits than any other pitcher in all of Major League Baseball that year against hitters with two strikes.

For those of you who aren’t baseball fans, when a hitter has two strikes against them, the pitcher usually has the advantage, and more times than not wins the battle.

Once Taillon identified this weakness, he focused aggressively on improving in that specific area. So, in the game that he won, any time he had two strikes on a hitter, he recognized it, took some additional time between pitches, and was really intentional about the pitches he made in those situations.

I have provided executive coaching to many engineering managers and executives. Most of them have a pretty good understanding of where their weaknesses lie, and if they don’t, I can usually help them to identify them through conversations with their staff. However, as Taillon has displayed, identifying your weaknesses is only one step in the right direction. It is then imperative that you display situational awareness, so that when you are in a situation where these weaknesses may take over, you become hyper-aware of the situation so that you can overcome them in the moment.

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The Dance Between Work and Life as an Engineer

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This is a guest blog by Gina Covarrubias

Work and Life

Image by Freepik

Are you caught up in a dance between committing to work and living your life as an engineer? An extreme focus in either direction could leave you jobless or lifeless. Read on if you want to improve your dance moves as an engineer!

Balance or Integration?

While some people like to speak of a work/life balance, others prefer work/life integration. What is the difference, and why is this worth addressing?

On the surface, they refer to the same idea — which is to overcommit to one area at the expense of the other.

The phrase work/life balance may feel more reasonable if you’re the kind of person who tends to compartmentalize aspects of your life. For example, you may prefer a distinct separation between work tasks and personal life. Or, maybe your preference is that work friends should remain at work and you’d rather not mingle with them otherwise. If you compartmentalize, you might struggle to think about integrating the two aspects; it might feel more like suffocation.

On the other hand, work/life integration could be a desirable term if you prefer to weave both work and personal duties together. Like making personal calls during work breaks. Or perhaps you enjoy making the introduction of family members to your colleagues during a Zoom call.

There is no right or wrong phrase. You get to choose which one feels most comfortable based on personality and lifestyle. So do not fret if others have a different preference!

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